Sustainable Design with Spray Foam Insulation

Bringing sustainable design & spray foam insulation together

What makes sustainable design and spray foam insulation an ideal combination for architects?

On average, 30% of the energy used in commercial buildings is wasted1.

Commercial buildings cost their owners more than $100 billion annually in energy costs1.

Commercial buildings account for 18% of the nation’s energy use and nearly 18% of greenhouse gas emissions1.

By 2035, 75% of all buildings will be either new or renovated1.

These facts empower architects to shape a more sustainable future. Energy efficiency is one of the ways Icynene spray foam insulation can contribute to sustainable design. When considering sustainable design and spray foam insulation, most insulation types only deliver R value, but building science teaches us that the inclusion of an air seal like that provided by Icynene spray foam insulation is vital for total building performance.

Key Contributions of Icynene as Commercial Spray Foam Insulation:

Energy efficiency (for reduced greenhouse gas emissions)

Healthier indoor environments

Reduced materials usage

Safer formulas

The option to choose a renewably based formula

1Source: 2011 Fast Facts: ENERGY STAR Commercial Building Design.

In 2006, the American Institute of Architects wisely adopted Architecture 2030's "2030 Challenge," an initiative seeking carbon neutrality in the industry by 2030. "[W]e believe we must alter our profession's actions," the AIA 2030 Commitment says, "and encourage our clients and the entire design and construction industry to join with us to change the course of the planet's future.

As an air-sealing solution, Icynene spray foam insulation can help:

Reduce carbon emissions by thousands of tons annually

Provide savings of up to 50% in heating and cooling

Seal out airborne pollutants, allergens and moisture for a healthier indoor environment

Reduce the amount of commercial building materials required and help shorten construction schedules

Your ICYNENE Dealer can tell you more about using ICYNENE for sustainable buildings.

Icynene: Sustainability + Innovation

While many spray foam products use HFCs (hydrofluorocarbons) as blowing agents and contain PBDEs (polybrominated diphenylethers) for fire resistance, Icynene works towards a greener future through our innovation. All Icynene spray foam insulation products are PBDE-free, and several are also HFC-free.